Rupike Irrigation Scheme: Assessment of opportunities and successes irrigation in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Smallholder irrigation schemes potentially improve the livelihoods of rural communities in developing countries. Rupike Irrigation Scheme has a total of 100 ha with 200 farmers. The crops mainly produced were maize, wheat, sugar beans and vegetables. They were also actively engaged in value addition of produce so as to reach a wider market audience. It was led by an irrigation addition of produce so as to reach a wider market audience. The success of the scheme was attributed to an effective management and functional constitution as well as receiving technical support from relevant stakeholders. Major challenges encountered were a poor road network and unreliable electricity supply. Good scheme management is important for improved livelihoods. The attributes of a good scheme management include a vibrant IMC, functional constitution and technical backstopping from relevant departments. Produce is primarily for home consumption while the surplus is sold to surrounding communities. The farmers were also actively engaged in value addition of produce so as to reach a wider market. The scheme members could take advantage of the dam to venture into other money-making activities such as agri- tourism and fishing. This could widen the revenue base and hedge them against price fluctuations of agriculture produce. The scheme management should continuously engage relevant departments and the local authorities for road maintenance. This would enable them to reach a wider audience in terms of produce marketing and visibility. Investing in other alternative power systems such as wind and solar are key to ensure that cropping cycles are not disrupted resulting in poor produce.